Kush Sharma and Sophia Hoffman
A week ago in Jackson County, Missouri, an epic spelling bee battle between fifth-grader Sophia Hoffman and seventh-grader Kush Sharma finally came to an end. In the first part of the match—which was only meant to have one part—the two went sixty-six rounds, exhausting all of the words that the organizers had prepared for the spelldown.
In the second part of the competition, held two weeks later, they went almost thirty rounds before Sophia Hoffman stumbled on “stifling.” Kush Sharma then defeated “definition” (after asking for its definition, of course!) to win the match. As for some of the words they had to spell in between . . . well, let’s just say that spelling bees were about the only teams I was picked first for when I was in grade school, and I’m glad I didn’t have to spell those words!
Of course, the win was very exciting for Sharma, who will now go on to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee.
It was also very disappointing for Hoffman, who got so close, only to fall short after so many rounds. Her father was philosophical for her: “I think it is part of the growth of the kids to learn how to work through disappointment and come out stronger,” he said, as reported in an AP story.
The two middle schoolers had become friends during the long matchup, so even for Sharma, the victory was bittersweet. After he won, he was quick to show Hoffman support and appreciation.
However, what really piqued my interest was something he said in an interview with KCUR Radio. Speaking for himself and his fellow contestant, Sharma made this philosophical statement: “I don’t think we see it as I beat her or she beats me. I think it’s like the word beat me.”
Now that’s grace in victory! And it shows a wisdom beyond his years.
For Sharma, the opponent is not the other person. It’s the challenge and the task we’re up against.
For more on battling the words, the world, but not the people, please click here to read on.
Spiritual Insights for Everyday Life 